From America to Iran: A seminary student family's life in the city of Qom

The Iranian new year, or Nowruz, is starting March 21. Iranians world over will ring in 1396 with their loved ones, enjoying the beginning of the season of spring, around the sofre haft seen. A setting made of seven things that start with the Farsi letter “seen” or س.

Living as a foreigner in Iran, I’m not too keen on the traditions, butI’m looking forward to my 2 weeks off from school, getting to sleep in and relax.

Right now we are fighting crazier-than-normal traffic, and stocking up on essential food items. Because during Nawruz break there will be less good produce and fewer items on the shelves. Iranians love their Nawruz. And they should – it’s the celebration of the season of spring and new beginnings.

Interestingly this year the first of the new year also coincides with the birth anniversary of Lady Fatima Zahra (sa). It falls the day before the eve of the new year.

Hoping this new year brings more blessings to everyone, and helps us come closer to the Almighty!

Here are a few pictures from around the shrine of Hazrat Masooma in Qom.